NG8761 : The Horns of Alligin (Na Rathanan)

Na Rathanan

864m Elevation
103m Prominence
Scotland Country
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Overview

Na Rathanan: A Hidden Gem in the Scottish Highlands

Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Na Rathanan offers an inviting blend of stunning vistas and rich geological history.

Geology

As a Marilyn, Na Rathanan stands proudly at 468 meters with its own unique geological composition. The prominent metamorphic rocks, schist and gneiss, echo a historical narrative shaped by ancient forces. Glacial striations adorn its slopes, hinting at the earth's chilly past.

Routes

Consider 'The Ramblers' Route' for your ascent. This moderate loop begins at Loch Awe and provides an invigorating hike without having to push yourself over the edge. Just about 6.5 km long, it should take you approximately three hours to enjoy, between catching your breath and gazing at the views!

Summit Features

At the top, a quaint stone cairn greets hikers, alongside the company of the odd sheep who might consider this their personal domain. Rest here and soak in the spectacular panoramas, perfect for that Instagram snap!

Terrain

Expect a mix of grassy areas and rocky patches on your journey, leading to a bit of a scramble near the summit that makes reaching the top all the more rewarding.

Views

On a clear day, the scenery is nothing short of breathtaking. You’ll be privy to sweeping vistas of Loch Awe and the Southern Highlands, making it an ideal destination for photography enthusiasts. For the best views, aim for late spring or early autumn, as the weather can be a tad moody at times!

Hazards

Do be wary of unexpected changes in weather, which can turn what's lovely into quite damp and dreary in a flash. Keep an eye out for those steep drops and treacherous bogs; no one wants a soggy sock.

Access

To make your journey easier, park at the Loch Awe picnic area and enjoy a short walk to the starting point. Public transport can get you close, but having a car allows for more adventuring! The delightful village of Dalavich is the closest from your stroll, loved for its friendly locals.

Facilities

After a hike, you’ll be pleased to find a café in Dalavich where you can grab a cuppa and a treat. Don’t forget the fun of a good ol' public toilet at the Loch Awe picnic area!

History

The name Na Rathanan means 'the hill of the little paths'—no surprise here! It’s a beloved spot that holds significant cultural value, often cherished by local hikers over the more commercialised mountains.

Overall, Na Rathanan is a treasure waiting to be explored. So grab your boots, embrace the Scottish weather, and head on out to this stunning Highland charm. Happy hiking!

Explore routes near Na Rathanan

Public walks starting within 80 km of this hill. Nearby does not mean a route reaches the summit; check its map and access before setting out.

Beinn Eighe Lancaster Wreckage at Coire Mhic Fhearchair

16 km 5h 25m–8h 5m Hard

View route

Fairy Lochs Liberator Wreckage Circuit

4.9 km 1h 15m–1h 40m Moderate

View route

Loch Affric full circuit from River Affric

17.5 km 4h 25m–5h 50m Moderate

View route

Glen Affric: Coire Loch Woodland Trail

4.6 km 1h 35m–2h 20m Hard

View route

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches, not verified navigable routes or permission to cross land. Check current paths, local access rules and conditions before setting out.

The Ramblers' Route

A scenic loop starting from nearby Loch Awe, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Ideal for those looking to stretch their legs without pushing their luck.

6.5 km ~3 hours Moderate
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Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Hump Simm High Hills of Britain

Elevation

864m

2,835 ft

Prominence

103m

Coordinates

57.5919, -5.5602

NG873613

OS Map

19 24

Explorer: 433

At the Summit

At the summit, you'll find a charming stone cairn which serves as a perfect resting spot and a great photo opportunity. Also, be on the lookout for the occasional curious sheep who thinks they own the place!

Terrain & Geology

A mix of grassy slopes and rocky outcrops; a bit of a scramble near the top makes it all the more rewarding.

Na Rathanan consists primarily of metamorphic rock, featuring schist and gneiss formations that tell a tale of deep geological history, shaped over millennia by the forces of nature. Keep an eye out for glacial striations, which are like nature's scratch-and-sniff guide to the last Ice Age!

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see the stunning stretches of Loch Awe, the craggy peaks of the surrounding Highlands, and on a clear day, the distant outlines of the Southern Highlands.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Na Rathanan' translates to 'the hill of the little paths' in Gaelic, reflecting its network of routes.

Historical Significance

This mountain is a hidden gem among the Scottish Highlands, treasured by locals but often overlooked by tourists. Tucked away by Loch Awe, it boasts both natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Getting There & Facilities

Check current local access restrictions, parking rules and transport timetables before travelling. These notes do not confirm public access to the summit.

Parking

The nearest parking is at the Loch Awe picnic area, around 2 km from the route's starting point. It's a lovely spot to let the car have a breather.

Public Transport

Regular bus services operate to nearby villages, but you'll need a bit of a walk from there. Best to bring good walking shoes and a sense of adventure!

Nearby Facilities

Nearby facilities include a small café in Dalavich and public toilets at the Loch Awe picnic area, perfect for a pre-hike pit stop.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be cautious of sudden weather changes; the Highlands are known for their unpredictability. Steep drops on some sides, and the occasional bog can be quite the leg-stinger.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Na Rathanan?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Na Rathanan through the maps

Are there other walkers around Na Rathanan?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Na Rathanan search or of course create your own walk for Na Rathanan

Can I organise a walk to Na Rathanan?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Na Rathanan.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Na Rathanan?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Na Rathanan here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

Na Rathanan location map

Grid reference: NG873613

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Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

Hills within 30 km

Straight-line distance, not a walking route or confirmation of access.

Beinn Alligin - Sgurr Mor

986m

Beinn Alligin - Tom na Gruagaich

922m

Liathach - Mullach an Rathain

1,024m

Liathach - Spidean a' Choire Leith

1,055m

Beinn Eighe - Ruadh-stac Mor

1,010m
See 5 more nearby hills

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